Shires Your interactive guide to selecting the right trombone.
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small bore Small Bore

The S.E. Shires line of small bore tenor trombones is designed for players who love the flexibility and clarity of a small bore trombone and also want a rich sound that will project well at all dynamics. Although we offer our entire range of bell and slide options, the most popular configurations by far have been:
  • .500 bore Nickel LightWeight slide with 1YM bells in 7½ and 7¾ inch diameters
  • .508 bore NLW slide with 1YM bell in 8 inch diameter

These combinations provide a clear, yet warm and flexible sound, with excellent response and agility over the entire range of the instrument. The smaller bells provide a more penetrating sound, particularly in the high register, easily suitable to the demands of a big band lead player. A .500-.508 dual bore is also available.

NEW! Small-bore slides now available in .485 and .495 bore!

If you would like to try an S.E. Shires small bore trombone, please contact us or one of our dealers to make an appointment or place an order. We will be happy to help you make your selection.

“I expected something different when I bought a Shires but couldn’t have anticipated this! This horn is waiting for me to do something with it—not simply responding. It beckons me to become a better player. The craftsmanship, quality and finish are fantastic. The slide is perfect—the best I have ever felt by far. Your personal attention at the factory was terrific and made the buying experience unforgettable.” - Jim Finlayson

“Steve worked with me to find an instrument that sounds and responds like I want it to. He makes a great horn!” - Don Immel

“The bell produces a warm, rich sound while the valve has a very smooth action—a combination that makes the horn really fun to play.” - Brian L. Diehl

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